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Smart. Stylish. Switched-on.Thu, 21 Sep 2017 05:38:46 +0000en-GBhourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.8.283378142Top five most expensive tech blunders: how simple mistakes led to massive losseshttp://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/09/top-five-expensive-tech-blunders-simple-mistakes-led-massive-losses.html
http://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/09/top-five-expensive-tech-blunders-simple-mistakes-led-massive-losses.html#respondThu, 21 Sep 2017 05:32:29 +0000http://www.shinyshiny.tv/?p=237900Author of Humans vs. Computers, Gojko Adzic, picks his top five biggest tech mistakes of all time… Humans have become increasingly reliant on technology to help ease and automate processes in our personal and professional lives. We’ve become so reliant in fact, that automation is expected to replace 25 million jobs within the next ten […]

]]>Author of Humans vs. Computers, Gojko Adzic, picks his top five biggest tech mistakes of all time…

Humans have become increasingly reliant on technology to help ease and automate processes in our personal and professional lives. We’ve become so reliant in fact, that automation is expected to replace 25 million jobs within the next ten years.

Given that 30% of UK industries are expected to be automated by 2037, we’re facing the very real idea that robots and humans will be working side by side each day. This brings with it many benefits including freeing up humans for more complicated tasks and roles. However, it also means that robots, who rely on algorithms to run systems and calculations, will be at risk for huge mistakes.

As such, here are the top five biggest tech blunders in recent history that led to massive losses because of computer error. The are some of the worst, but serve as a reminder of similar crises.

1 – A knight in tarnished armour

In 2012, one of Knight Capital’s eight automated trading systems (also known as SMARS) malfunctioned, and continued approving trades long after orders were fulfilled. After buying and selling more than $6 billion of shares in 45 minutes, Knight Capital lost over $460 million.

The blunder led to major price fluctuations in more than 100 companies and a $12 million fine by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Knight Capital’s stock price collapsed and their then CEO was forced to resign.

Thanks to an emergency investment, Knight Capital was saved, but at the end of the day, shareholders lost 73% of the company.

2 – Crisis of goodwill for Pepsi

Before the tech revolution really started, back in 1992, Pepsi experienced promotional problems when they issued too many winning bottle caps in a Filipino lottery sponsored by the brand.

Because of a software glitch, instead of one winning bottle cap, more than 800,000 bottle caps were in circulation. Initially, Pepsi refused to honour the winnings, leading to violent street protests. Pepsi ended up paying over USD $10 million in “goodwill” gestures to smoothe over the situation, but was still sued by more than 22,000 people.

3 – AXA’s insecurities

AXA Rosenberg Risk Optimizer experienced severe losses in 2011 when the company’s software incorrectly combined information from several risk models. Decimals were converted into incorrect percentages, costing over $216 million in losses for over 600 client portfolios.

The SEC charged AXA Rosenberg with securities fraud, eventually leading to a settlement costing more than $240 million in fines and refunds.

5 – Amster-damn!

In 2013, Amsterdam surprised 9,000 of its poor residents with an early Christmas gift. Through a mathematical error and miscalculation of decimals, like in our #3 example, the city council ended up paying out house assistance benefits in Euros rather than cents.

Gojko is a partner at Neuri Consulting LLP, winner of the 2016 European Software Testing Outstanding Achievement Award, and the 2011 Most Influential Agile Testing Professional Award. Gojko’s book Specification by Example won the Jolt Award for the best book of 2012, and his blog won the UK Agile Award for the best online publication in 2010.

Gojko has helped companies around the world improve their software delivery, from some of the largest financial institutions to innovative startups. A frequent publisher on topics including impact mapping, agile testing, specification by example and behaviour driven development, Gojko’s newest book, Humans vs Computers is available on Amazon and all major online book retailers worldwide.

]]>http://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/09/top-five-expensive-tech-blunders-simple-mistakes-led-massive-losses.html/feed0237900Plantronics announces new 300 and 500 Series headphones range, partnership with PEARhttp://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/09/plantronics-announces-new-300-and-500-series-headphone-range-partnership-with-pear.html
http://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/09/plantronics-announces-new-300-and-500-series-headphone-range-partnership-with-pear.html#respondWed, 20 Sep 2017 16:45:12 +0000http://www.shinyshiny.tv/?p=237864Plantronics has extended its range of wireless sport headphones and announced a new partnership with the PEAR personal coach app. New products include the BackBeat FIT 300 Series, the BackBeat FIT 500 Series, as well as the BackBeat FIT Training Edition and BackBeat FIT Boost Edition. The BackBeat FIT 300 Series wireless earbuds offer an ultra-light, […]

Plantronics has extended its range of wireless sport headphones and announced a new partnership with the PEAR personal coach app.

New products include the BackBeat FIT 300 Series, the BackBeat FIT 500 Series, as well as the BackBeat FIT Training Edition and BackBeat FIT Boost Edition.

The BackBeat FIT 300 Series wireless earbuds offer an ultra-light, portable and sweat-proof design with six hours of battery life and secure-fit ear tip design while the BackBeat FIT 500 Series provide up to 18 hours of battery life, protection against sweat and memory foam earcups designed to block out noise.

What’s more, a new partnership with PEAR Personal Coach App means users can now take their workout to the next level by bringing together wireless freedom and ultimate stability with interactive, on-demand coaching with the BackBeat FIT Training Edition and BackBeat FIT Boost Edition.

According to the National Federation of Professional Trainers, an experienced trainer can cost upwards of £40-£50 an hour, making PEAR Personal Coaching App an ideal complement to the Plantronics BackBeat FIT, claims the manufacturer.

Led by renowned coaches such as Andrew Kastor, elite Olympic coach, and his wife Deena Kastor, Olympian and world-record runner as well as author and triathlete coach Matt Dixon, users will have unlimited access to 12 workouts and six-month access to the entire PEAR workout library.

“The BackBeat FIT Family provides a variety of styles and features designed with sport in mind.

“There’s a sweat-protected, stable and comfortable pair of BackBeat FIT headphones that’s right for any level of fitness – whether you’re looking for a dedicated sport headphone with on-demand coaching, or just want something comfortable and stylish to wear throughout the day.”

The BackBeat FIT 300 Series will be available towards the end of October in four colours (black/grey, dark blue/blue, grey/lime green and grey/coral) and in select retailers for £89.99.

The BackBeat FIT 500 Series will be available from November in select retailers in two colours (teal and black) for £89.99.

]]>http://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/09/plantronics-announces-new-300-and-500-series-headphone-range-partnership-with-pear.html/feed0237864Happy Birthday Dr Johnson! Google Doodle celebrates father of modern dictionaryhttp://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/09/happy-birthday-dr-johnson-google-doodle-celebrates-father-of-modern-dictionary.html
http://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/09/happy-birthday-dr-johnson-google-doodle-celebrates-father-of-modern-dictionary.html#respondMon, 18 Sep 2017 09:21:16 +0000http://www.shinyshiny.tv/?p=237813Happy Birthday Samuel Johnson. The man who brought us the Dictionary of the English Language would have been 308 today! Born in Lichfield, Staffordshire in 1709, Johnson is perhaps best known as a Londoner, most famous for his quote – When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in […]

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Happy Birthday Samuel Johnson. The man who brought us the Dictionary of the English Language would have been 308 today!

Born in Lichfield, Staffordshire in 1709, Johnson is perhaps best known as a Londoner, most famous for his quote – When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford.

First published in 1755, his dictionary (while not the first) had over 42,000 entries and was considered to be the most comprehensive achievement of scholarship back in the day.

It provided valuable insights into the language and culture of 18th century as well as some words that are still in common parlance today including the word fart – see below.

“Fart, noun: Wind from behind.Love is the fart
Of every heart;
It pains a man when ‘tis kept close;
And others doth offend, when ‘tis let loose”

You can see 25 weird and wonderful examples from his first dictionary here.

And while his dictionary was said to include every word known to man at the time, in this great comic sketch below from Blackadder – C is for Contrafibularity – Lord Blackadder tries to convince the great man that he may just have missed a few out!

]]>http://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/09/happy-birthday-dr-johnson-google-doodle-celebrates-father-of-modern-dictionary.html/feed0237813The analogue film revival is on as Polaroid makes comeback under new ownershiphttp://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/09/the-analogue-film-revival-is-on-as-polaroid-makes-comeback-under-new-ownership.html
http://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/09/the-analogue-film-revival-is-on-as-polaroid-makes-comeback-under-new-ownership.html#respondThu, 14 Sep 2017 08:45:27 +0000http://www.shinyshiny.tv/?p=237670Ten years after it made its last instant film camera, Polaroid is back under a new brand, Polaroid Originals. Is this the beginning of the analogue film revival? Let’s hope so, says Chris Price If analogue record players and vinyl can make a comeback why not film cameras and film. There was always something very […]

The Polaroid OneStep 2 is the first Polaroid branded camera for ten years. Image: Polaroid Originals

Ten years after it made its last instant film camera, Polaroid is back under a new brand, Polaroid Originals. Is this the beginning of the analogue film revival? Let’s hope so, says Chris Price

If analogue record players and vinyl can make a comeback why not film cameras and film. There was always something very appealing about camera film, especially the instant pictures you could get from Polaroid.

OK the picture quality wasn’t the best but wasn’t it magical watching the image slowly emerge as you waved it in the air? So much more exciting than the digitised images stuck inside your smartphone!

But it’s not just nostalgic people like me brought up in the 1980s, listening to the music of Japan (remember their album Gentlemen Take Polaroids?) who enjoyed the delights of a Polaroid camera. It seems a whole new generation of people are embracing instant film cameras like the popular Instax Mini 9 camera from Fuji.

Separately, many companies are reporting a growth in analogue film sales too, suggesting a revival in the use of analogue camera equipment.

Earlier this year, Kodak Aliris, the firm that bought part of Kodak, announced it would reintroduce Ektachrome, a colour reversal film that discontinued while Harman Technology, which manufactures the popular Ilford Photo Black and White 35mm films, has been experiencing a revival too.

“We’re seeing film growth of 5% year-on-year globally,” Giles Branthwaite, the sales and marketing director at Harman, recently told Time Magazine. “Our professional film sales have been increasing over the last two or three years,” added Dennis Olbrich, president of Kodak Alaris’ imaging, paper, photo chemicals and film division.

The OneStep 2 shares many of the same features as the original OneStep but with USB charging, improved battery life and a flash. Image: Polaroid Originals

And now Polaroid itself is back up and running (well sort of – more of that later) with the Polaroid OneStep 2 – which look distinctly retro in styling to me.

Priced at £109.99, and available in both black and white finishes, it offers the same point and shoot functionality of the original but with a few additional extras such as USB charging, a built in flash and longer lasting battery life.

It’s available to pre-order from today (September 14th, 2017) from the Polaroid Originals website and will be on sale from national retailers/online from the end of October. Nor is the OneStep 2 the only model available as Polaroid Originals will be selling refurbished vintage Polaroid cameras too!

Complementing the OneStep2 camera is a new range of instant film with colour, black and white and range of special editions to choose from. New I-type film for the OneStep 2 is priced at £14.99 with eight pictures per pack. And film for vintage formats – the Polaroid SX-70, 600 and Spectra – is priced from £17.99.

Impossible project

What’s remarkable is that the OneStep 2 wouldn’t have happened at all if it wasn’t for the sheer determination of a group of Polaroid enthusiasts, called the Impossible Project.

]]>http://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/09/the-analogue-film-revival-is-on-as-polaroid-makes-comeback-under-new-ownership.html/feed0237670Digital erosion of childhood. Should we be encouraging children to take risks?http://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/09/digital-erosion-of-childhood-should-we-be-encouraging-children-to-take-risks.html
http://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/09/digital-erosion-of-childhood-should-we-be-encouraging-children-to-take-risks.html#respondWed, 06 Sep 2017 14:11:43 +0000http://www.shinyshiny.tv/?p=237658Keeping young children away from perceived risky activities such as outdoor swimming is damaging. At least that’s according to education expert Dr Sandra Leaton Gray from the UCL Institute of Education. Writing in her book Invisibly Blighted: the digital erosion of childhood Leaton Gray says: “Heavily supervised young children of today may simply be more likely to drown […]

Keeping young children away from perceived risky activities such as outdoor swimming is damaging. At least that’s according to education expert Dr Sandra Leaton Gray from the UCL Institute of Education.

“Heavily supervised young children of today may simply be more likely to drown as youths because they don’t go swimming very often and their water safety awareness is low, compared to that of children who swim frequently under less supervision.”

Figures, published last year by the National Water Safety Forum (NWSF), reveal that 321 people lost their lives in accidental drownings in the UK in 2015 with 82 people having drowned while walking or running, and 29 deaths while taking part in a commercial activity.

The number also includes 30 people who died from suspected natural causes while or after being in the water.

Children and youths aged up to 19 represent 10 per cent of those killed, with 32 dying in 2015, 23 of these being in the age 15-19 bracket.

Speaking to The Sunday Times, Leaton Gray said young people were being deterred from dipping into waters that were safe by unnecessary “no swimming” signs.

“We are banning swimming in more and more places, and by doing so, making it more dangerous for the very young people we are trying to protect.

“Swimming has become an approved activity run by local authorities in special places, which are almost always heavily chlorinated swimming pools, with strict session times.”

Leaton Gray said supervised swimming in rivers and lakes would help reduce the risk and the numbers of lives lost.

“Young people gather in all sorts of dodgy spots that wild swimmers would never venture into and then start taking serious risks without being properly aware of the consequences.”

She presents her paper, ‘How risky is it to be a child?’ at the British Educational Research Association (BERA) conference this week.

]]>http://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/09/digital-erosion-of-childhood-should-we-be-encouraging-children-to-take-risks.html/feed0237658Death of children’s TV as young turn to devices for more exciting contenthttp://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/09/death-of-childrens-tv-as-young-turn-to-devices-for-exciting-content.html
http://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/09/death-of-childrens-tv-as-young-turn-to-devices-for-exciting-content.html#respondFri, 01 Sep 2017 10:58:21 +0000http://www.shinyshiny.tv/?p=237472 Is the rapid decline of children’s TV programming potentially putting our young children’s health at risk as they increasingly turn to their electronic devices for their entertainment? Chris Price reports Children’s entertainment has transformed significantly over the years. At present, children are more likely to use the internet than any other generation, with OFCOM […]

Is the rapid decline of children’s TV programming potentially putting our young children’s health at risk as they increasingly turn to their electronic devices for their entertainment? Chris Price reports

Children’s entertainment has transformed significantly over the years. At present, children are more likely to use the internet than any other generation, with OFCOM (Office of Communications) reporting that internet usage has overtaken television for the first-time as the top media pastime for children in the UK.

A Survey by OnBuy discovers that 77% of parents would prefer their child to watch TV regularly instead of playing on a tablet while 94% of parents think children spend far too much time on their electronic devices.

Other startling statistics are that 25% of under three year olds have their own media device and that 3-4 year olds spend 8 hours and 18 minutes on electronic devices, per week.

As a result, researchers studying the behaviour of children have indicated that children are growing up in a “digital childhood”.

According to a survey produced by Tech and Play in 2015, one quarter (25%) of under three year olds had their own media device, such as a tablet or games console, and 37% of three to five year olds also had their own device.

Older children, aged between five and 15 years old, are most likely to have the most access to electronic devices.

Dramatic rise in technology use

Research conducted by OFCOM has shown that the use of technology amongst children has increased over the last few years, particularly for younger children.

In 2015, toddlers aged around three to four years old spent on average 6 hours and 48 minutes per week on electronic devices, which soared to 8 hours and 18 minutes last year – an increase of 26%.

For children aged between five and 15 years old, the average time also increased substantially, from 13 hours and 42 minutes in 2015 to 15 hours in 2016, last year. This is a stark increase from 1995, when screen time was just a mere three hours.

Credit: nenetus / Shutterstock

Spoilt for choice

With the number of apps available for children to play on the Apple ‘App Store’ and Android’s ‘Google Play’; children today are spoilt for choice.

According to statistics released by Statista, in the space of two years (January 2015 to 2017), apps on the App Store grew by almost one million alone. In June, this year, the Apple App Store had 2,200,000 apps on offer, and Google Play had even more – a staggering 3,000,000.

No wonder then that children favour electronic devices over television when there are so many apps readily available at the click of a button!

In its survey, Onbuy.com sought to establish a relationship between the rise of digital usage by children and the decline in children’s television programmes. OnBuy sampled parents, with children up until 15 years old, and asked why they allowed their young children to play on electronic devices, particularly tablets.

According to the research it collected, 64% of parents would prefer television corporations, such as the BBC, to spend money on children’s television, rather than electronic applications (such as BBC Cbeebies or Go CBBC) in order to prevent addiction.

Consequently, 77% of parents would favour their children to watch TV shows, instead of playing on electronic devices for hours on end. When Onbuy.com asked parents why they allowed their children to play on tablets and game consoles for long periods of time, over the course of a week, parents had four main responses:

They didn’t allow children to play on electronic devices for long periods of time (14%) They only allowed use for educational purposes (29%) For entertainment, socialising and winding down (22%) Convenient for parents to keep their child entertained and quiet whilst they complete chores, cook or work

OnBuy’s investigation into the ‘digital childhood’ is indicative of OFCOM’s research which illustrates how only one in 10 toddlers of the so-called “iPad generation” are labelled as being ‘healthy’ by paediatricians.

Indeed the Nightingale Hospital, located in central London, has treated children as young as 12 years old for ‘technology addiction’ while children as young as seven years old are developing hunchbacks and curved spines due to long hours spent bending over devices such as phones and tablets, a chiropractor has claimed.

Is the decline of children’s television programmes to blame?

Onbuy.com found that due to the rise in technology, there has been an apparent decline in children’s programming times on TV. Children’s programme schedules for major channels, per year, has decreased considerably in 17 years – with ITV showing the sharpest decline:

Additionally, according to OFCOM, in 1998, repeats of children’s TV shows made up 38% of children’s television. However in 2011, the figure rose sharply to 91%, according to research by OFCOM.

What is being done to solve the problem?

Onbuy has identified that according to the BBC, over the last six years, the number of children watching television programmes has dropped by more than one quarter.

In an attempt to revive children’s television, the BBC claims that over the next three years £31.4m of their budget will be spent online, in order to combat competition from American broadcasters such as Netflix and Amazon Prime.

New content will include videos, live online programme extensions, blogs, vlogs, podcasts, quizzes, guides, games and apps to appeal to younger generations that are becoming more “tech savvy”. Whether that’s too little, too late for the next generation of technology addicts remains to be seen.

]]>http://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/09/death-of-childrens-tv-as-young-turn-to-devices-for-exciting-content.html/feed0237472The Top 5 Posture Correctors On The Market In 2017http://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/08/the-top-5-posture-correctors-on-the-market-in-2017.html
http://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/08/the-top-5-posture-correctors-on-the-market-in-2017.html#respondSun, 27 Aug 2017 19:03:09 +0000http://www.shinyshiny.tv/?p=237454Incorrect posture plays a detrimental role in aggravating back pain. According to reliable sources, when your head slouches for an inch, you put 10 pounds of stress on the spine. In addition to causing back pain, incorrect posture can also lead to digestion complications, shoulder aches, neck aches, and terrible weakness in the legs and […]

Incorrect posture plays a detrimental role in aggravating back pain. According to reliable sources, when your head slouches for an inch, you put 10 pounds of stress on the spine. In addition to causing back pain, incorrect posture can also lead to digestion complications, shoulder aches, neck aches, and terrible weakness in the legs and arms.

Fortunately, there isn’t a dearth of posture correctors on the market, with each claiming to work more effectively than the other. Luckily, you needn’t lose your sleep over decision-making as we have listed the top 5 posture correctors on the market in 2017. Here is a list of posture correctors ranked by effectiveness!

1. ProLite Plus Lumbar Support

If you are looking for a posture corrector that helps prevent lumbar strain, muscle strain, and lumbar instability, you should consider purchasing the ProLite Lumbar Support. So, how does this product work? Well, it uses its low-profile, tapered panels to fit the natural contours of the body, allowing the vital parts to be stabilized and compressed, helping you control the pain.

2. Yosoo Adjustable Corrector Brace

If you work on your computer round the clock, you should invest in the Yosoo Adjustable Corrector Brace. While working on the computer, it is natural for the shoulders to fall forward regularly. However, when that happens, it can put strain on your spine, in turn, aggravating back pain. The Yosoo Adjustable Corrector Brace helps prevent the fall of the shoulders by pulling back rounded shoulders. Since the product is constructed of latex-free and breathable material, you can rest assured that you’ll not have a sweaty back upon its use.

3. Saunders Posture Support

What’s great about the Saunders Posture Support is the fact that it boasts of crisscross suspender-like straps; these straps perform an exceptional task of ensuring that the lower back, spine, and shoulders are positioned correctly at all times. The makers of the product have also smartly ensured that the waistband is elastic, therefore, allowing for a custom fit.

4. Posture Aid Clavicle Splint

If you are looking for a posture corrector that helps you stand correctly, you should look no further than the Posture Aid Clavicle Splint. In addition to that, the product also improves your breathing and ensures that your spine is aligned correctly. It also helps that the posture corrector boasts of padded shoulder straps with Velcro bands, making the support easy and comfortable to use. The Posture Aid Clavicle Splint can be either sported over or under clothing.

5. Comfort Posture Support Brace

The shoulder and back brace, Comfort Posture Support Brace, features an adjustable waist support strap and works like a charm on the shoulders, helping train the muscles to stay back instead of falling forward. This particular brace can be effectively used during workouts too.

However, it is ill-advised to use it for more than 2 hours at a time. Basically, the brace does an exceptional job of educating your back to stand straighter and taller, aiding in the proper alignment of the spine.

]]>http://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/08/the-top-5-posture-correctors-on-the-market-in-2017.html/feed0237454Top 5 valid reasons for getting out of workhttp://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/08/top-5-valid-reasons-getting-work.html
http://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/08/top-5-valid-reasons-getting-work.html#respondThu, 24 Aug 2017 07:17:06 +0000http://www.shinyshiny.tv/?p=237434Sometimes you need a break from work or you might be tired from a recent vacation and you need an extra day off to recuperate. If you are looking for good reasons to skip work, you can check out a website called BestFakeDoctorsNotes.net. This site offers a variety of excuses as to why you’re not […]

Sometimes you need a break from work or you might be tired from a recent vacation and you need an extra day off to recuperate. If you are looking for good reasons to skip work, you can check out a website called BestFakeDoctorsNotes.net.

This site offers a variety of excuses as to why you’re not able to work on a certain day.

Here are five valid reasons to get out of work.

Child Is Sick/Child’s Doctor’s Appointment

Working mothers can relate to the need to miss work because of the illness of a child. Or you might miss work because your child’s regular doctor’s appointment falls on a day during hours when you usually work, and that was the only available time that your child’s pediatrician could schedule for that day.

Jury Duty

This is another valid reason to miss work. If you received a notice stating your requirement a few days ahead of time, then you can present this notice to your boss and he/she can see the dates that you will need to be absent.

Car Accident

This could be a life-threatening situation depending on the nature of the accident so this is an acceptable reason for missing work for a few weeks. Just be sure to give your boss an honest account of what happened.

You Are Experiencing a Serious Illness

Here is another great reason to miss work. For example, if you need to spend a few days in the hospital for chemotherapy after a cancer diagnosis, this would be a valid reason for not coming to work. Or if you suffered a stroke and need time to recuperate, this is also valid.

Family Celebration

If your older brother is getting married or if your parents’ 40th wedding anniversary party is happening soon, it would be a valid reason to miss work. Work shouldn’t supersede important family milestones and if your boss is unreasonable in this aspect, then it might be time to seek another place of employment. This is especially true if you have a record of consistent quality of work and excellent attendance.

Additional Points on Missing Work

If you know you will miss work for about a week or so, it is wise to prepare in advance. Complete all current tasks by the proper deadlines so that you will not burden co-workers or your boss with them.

Another thing you can do is complete some of your work at home while out if possible so that you will not have an overload of assignments once you return to work. Contact clients and inform them of how long you will be out of work so that they can make other arrangements.

Conclusion

There will be times when you’ll need to miss work for valid reasons. The key is to be honest in your communication with your boss.

Also offer to cover for co-workers who need to miss work periodically because you might need the same help when you won’t be able to come in. Most importantly, use the time off to relax and do self-care so that you will be refreshed upon returning to work.

]]>http://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/08/top-5-valid-reasons-getting-work.html/feed02374343 Ways to Reduce Size of MP4 with Movavihttp://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/08/3-ways-reduce-size-mp4-movavi.html
http://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/08/3-ways-reduce-size-mp4-movavi.html#commentsWed, 16 Aug 2017 07:00:01 +0000http://www.shinyshiny.tv/?p=237416MP4 is known as the most convenient format to store your videos. Why? Mainly because of two reasons: its relatively little size and compatibility with most of the programs and devices. However, if you have a two-hour movie in HD, the file will be quite “heavy”. If you want to save some space on your […]

MP4 is known as the most convenient format to store your videos. Why? Mainly because of two reasons: its relatively little size and compatibility with most of the programs and devices.

However, if you have a two-hour movie in HD, the file will be quite “heavy”. If you want to save some space on your hard disc, portable drive or device, you can reduce the size of such videos. Plus, it can be necessary if you want to upload videos online or attach to an e-mail.

You can always compress MP4 without significant loss of quality using the right software.Here, in this article, we will tell you all about MP4 conversion with the help of Movavi Video Converter. This program can change the file format in mere seconds and keep its best possible quality.

Method 1. Choose different resolution or codec

Changing codec from H.264 to MPEG-4 will give you only a slight difference between the original and the resulting files. The resolution, in its turn, will play a significant part in reducing the file size. For instance, the resolution of our original video is 1920×1080. If we keep the codec H.264 but change the resolution to 1280×720, the file will be twice smaller in size, but still in HD.

By clicking on the cogwheel you will open customizable settings where you can choose your own parameters for the output video: frame size, resize quality, bitrate, frame rate, and more.

The video’s most suitable resolution depends on the screen you’re gonna watch it. That’s why you can select one of the optimized conversion profiles for smartphones, tablets, and even TVs. Use a convenient search bar to find the necessary preset, or plug your device into the computer for the program to identify it automatically.

Method 2. Reduce size and bitrate manually

Another thing that size depends on is the bitrate of the video. So, if you make the bitrate lower, the file size will become smaller. But be careful, because the quality of the video will be significantly worse if you tweak the bitrate and the size too much.

Method 3. Trim unnecessary parts

Making the video shorter will also reduce its size. It is not exactly compressing MP4 files, but also a way to get rid of some megabytes. However, if you cut just a couple of seconds, the size of the video won’t be changed significantly.

You can trim your videos in the special editor right in the program. This tool works with great precision, so you can cut away all unnecessary fragments. By the way, in this very editor, you can also adjust the quality of the picture, stabilize camera jitter, remove background noise, embed subtitles and do other basic tasks.

With Movavi Video Converter, it doesn’t take much time to complete the conversion process. Even if the video is large, Intel hardware acceleration and NVIDIA technologies will considerably increase the speed of conversion. The program is also optimized for multi-core processors, so it can convert several large videos (with H.264 codec) simultaneously without loss of speed or quality.

]]>http://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/08/3-ways-reduce-size-mp4-movavi.html/feed1237416Calm Body and Soul – 20 Things You Can Do To Soothe Your Racing Mindhttp://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/08/calm-body-soul-20-things-can-soothe-racing-mind.html
http://www.shinyshiny.tv/2017/08/calm-body-soul-20-things-can-soothe-racing-mind.html#respondThu, 10 Aug 2017 08:02:07 +0000http://www.shinyshiny.tv/?p=237384Life is hectic. Your inbox is overflowing, the kids have soccer practice, and your boss expects you to stay late to finish a project they gave you less than two hours ago. While there isn’t much we can do to reduce the amount of things jammed into a 24 hour period, there are ways to […]

Life is hectic. Your inbox is overflowing, the kids have soccer practice, and your boss expects you to stay late to finish a project they gave you less than two hours ago.

While there isn’t much we can do to reduce the amount of things jammed into a 24 hour period, there are ways to relax your body and mind, and be ready to take on the next day ahead.

Exercise

Many people turn to exercise as part of their daily routine and health regime. Activities such as yoga, weight lifting, cardio, and stretching aren’t just good for your body; they’re good for your mind too.

Taking the time to concentrate on the task at hand can allow your mind to let go of stress factors and focus on what you are currently involved with. Many gyms offer classes that have physical contact components, such as boxing, that will let you get your aggression out while doing your body some good.

The problem is most of us don’t like the confounded space of a gym. That shouldn’t be a problem – swimming is one of those habits that you can’t imagine incorporating into your routine but once you get into it, you become addicted to it.

If you live in an apartment, get a pool membership and take a 20-30 minutes dip before you head of to work. If you live in a house getting an above-ground swimming pool is worth thinking about.

According to ultimatepoolguide.com, you can get a good one on the cheap and the money you pay for it will continue to bring dividends. Investing in one is investing in your own wellness.

Meditate

I’m sure you’ve heard this before, but meditation is one of the go-to ways to ease and relax your mind and body. All you will need is a quiet place, closed eyes, and the ability to breathe deeply.

If you want to make meditation a bit more visual, imagine yourself in an ideal destination. Wherever your visualized spot is, take everything in that you can while you complete the breathing; notice the colors, the sounds, and the smells while you virtually transport yourself to this spot.

Deep breathing

For those of you who may not have time to full on meditate, deep breathing works well, too! The great thing about this is that it can be done literally anywhere. Pick a point of focus – the ceiling, the window, a flower- and hone in on that one thing.

As you focus on the object, breathe in deeply through your nose, and exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat this multiple times.

Listen to music

Everyone has a favorite type of music, and for this any genre will do. Just be sure that it gives you a sense of happiness and positive thoughts! If you enjoy rock music, look for songs with a slower tempo.

Classical music on the piano or harp is also extremely relaxing. If you aren’t a fan of classical music, many of the top songs from today are covered on the piano, acoustic guitar, harp, and even the cello.

Go for a walk

This could fall under the exercise category, but deserves a spot all its own. Going for a walk doesn’t always mean you’re looking to accelerate your heart rate or break a sweat; just get outside and take in the fresh air.

The best thing about going for a walk is that there is no need to have a set destination; it is only determined by how long you need to give yourself to unwind and relax.

Take a long bath or shower

There is nothing more relaxing than sinking into a piping hot shower, or a hot drawn bath with bubbles, wine, and candles. Okay, maybe you would rather forego the bubbles, wine, and candles, but the sensation of submerging your body in warm water is second to none.

Set aside some time at the end of your day and make sure you will have this time to yourself.

Take a power nap

Taking a power nap not only has the ability to revive and rejuvenate your body for a full day ahead, but can also relieve your racing mind for a short period of time. Allowing yourself to rest for a power nap can be extremely beneficial, as long as you keep it short enough! And yes, it can be done even in office environment.

Sleeping for too long will allow your body to enter into the second or third stage of sleep, which will leave your mind and body feeling more tired and groggy than before you laid your head down. Although a 15 to 20 minute span of sleep may seem like nothing, this short rest will give you more energy than powering through the day without the added rest.

If you have access to an air mattress and a place to put it after it has been blown up, you’re in even more luck than those who have to revert to their car seat over lunch break. Now, we know that this might sound like it’s good in theory, but practically impossible in practice.

If you set your mind to choose the best air bed for your situation, there are options out there that are small, light and tough enough to be used in an office. When there’s a will, there’s a way.

Cook or bake

Cooking and baking are both very precise, and require a large amount of concentration. Immerse yourself in a recipe, new or an old favorite, and watch your creation becomes a reality. Think positively as you will have a tasty treat to reward yourself with!

Put your thoughts on paper

Writing down your emotions is a great way to get them out. By putting your thoughts down on paper, you are acknowledging your stressors: what makes you the most stressed? Recognizing these factors can help get feelings off of your chest, and can possibly help you reduce these in the future.

Talk to a friend or family member

Just like writing down what you’re feeling, speaking to someone can help relieve a crazy mind quickly. Even if you talk casually on the phone and don’t even bring up the stress and chaos, sometimes hearing a friendly voice is all you need to help put your mind at ease.

Do some type of puzzle

Whether it is a jigsaw, Sodoku, or crosswords, challenging your mind with puzzles can relive stress. Having your mind concentrate on solving something fun will completely redirect the stress into something productive.

If at al possible, do it with your friends and family – it’s better on so many levels.

Plan your dream home

We’ve all used Pinterest to plan things like weddings, engagement rings, and dream cars. Take an hour and create your own board of what you would like to see in a dream home. It’s a great way to be creative, have some fun, and take your mind away from stress.

Power clean

This may not be everyone’s first choice, but power cleaning even one room of your home or apartment is not only satisfying, but a great way to ease aggression. Scrub your toilet, bathtub and counters; wash dishes by hand.

Anything to exert a high level of energy into something productive will make you feel great once it’s done.

Go for a drive

Like going for a walk, this option has no time frame or destination unless you choose to set one. The only thing this will require is some gas money.

Explore some back roads, blast some music, and roll your windows down while you adventure some unknown terrain. Just make sure you can get home on your own, or have a GPS to help navigate you back.

Relax your body muscles

Lie down on a couch or bed and imagine your body becoming heavy, piece by piece. Say in your head, or out loud, which parts are getting heavy and where the weight is moving next. Allow yourself to sink into the furniture and breathe deeply.

Read a book

Have you ever read a book that just transported you to another world? Pick a book, any book, of whichever genre interests you. Give yourself an hour to fall into the pages and become part of another world away from your own crazy mind.

Drink warm liquid

There are very few things better than feeling the warm coziness of something warm going into your stomach. Sip on a warm drink without alcohol: herbal tea, hot chocolate, bone broth. Take your time as you drink this and enjoy the feeling of warmth and comfort.

Do something artistic

Take some time for yourself and pick up the paint brushes or markers! You don’t have to be Picasso to relieve chaos through art. Any type of arts and crafts will do: painting, drawing, sewing, knitting, even coloring in adult coloring books- and yes, they really do make those.

Change into comfortable, non-work clothes

Nothing will remind you of a stressful work day than staying in the clothes you just finished your shift in. Put on comfortable clothes that remind you of being at home. If you can’t seem to wear sweatpants and an oversized t-shirt for the remainder of your day, change into jeans and a hoodie.

Spend time with your pet

Pets are your best friends and even a quick cuddle session with your furry pal is enough to relive stress. Talk to them, pet them, or even get outside and play with them! They’ll appreciate the attention as much as you appreciate the tension relief.

Food for thought

Our go-to “relaxation” these days usually relies on watching TV…whether it’s re-runs of Friends of that favorite movie of yours that you watched a dozen times already and know every line from.

Let’s just take a step back here and acknowledge if the TV really makes you feel relaxed. Most of us will know the underlying feeling of being even more disconnected from the world as you take a day to watch into a flat electronic surface.

You get a laugh or two but there’s that moment of clarity right after the laugh when you realize, for a split second, that it’s not doing you any good.

If you know what we meant when we mentioned that “split second” do try some of the tips on this list, don’t let it be just another list you read and thought to yourself, “Yeah, I should really try that.”

The hardest part is introducing the new activity into your life. Once you do, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.